Welcome to episode #39! As the first episode of 2017 it’s only fitting that I wish you all a very happy new year, and that we kick off the show with a jaw-dropping guest. She is an icon and a pioneer in the design, education and podcasting world.

Named “one of the most influential designers working today” by Graphic Design USA, our guest is also an author of six books, a brand strategist – formerly the President of the design division at Sterling Brands for 20 years, and host of the podcast Design Matters; the first and longest running podcast about design. She has interviewed nearly 300 design luminaries and cultural commentators.

And when you thought it couldn’t get any more juicy, she is also the Chair and Co-founder of the Masters Program in Branding at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Speaking of, this was recorded in NYC in November last year and am excited to finally let this one out of the bag.

Some of the topics we spoke about include:

How to deal with challenges and heartbreak on our career path

Advice to designers who are struggling to decide which discipline to focus on

The difference between a good designer and a great one

Practical tips for those wanting to start a podcast, and plenty more.

I present to you, the deeply thoughtful, wise and compassionate … Debbie Millman!

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